§ 2.43 p.m.
Lord JANNERMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
The Question was as follows:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress has been made in the consultations with interested organis- ations as to how the Licensing Compensation Funds referred to in Recommendation 15.23 of the Report of the Departmental Committee on Liquor Licensing should be disposed of.
§ Lord WELLS-PESTELLMy Lords, we are at present obtaining the views of the compensation authorities and other bodies directly involved in the operation of the Funds. They have been invited to submit their views to my right honourable friend by 30th April of this year.
Lord JANNERMy Lords, I thank my noble friend for the reply he has given. Would be ensure that, after that meeting is held, action is taken as speedily as possible?—because, as it now stands, the position really is absurd.
§ Lord WELLS-PESTELLMy Lords, I will certainly convey my noble friend's remarks to my right honourable friend, but I would point out that, since this matter was raised a few months ago, we have proceeded with some alacrity.
§ The Earl of KIMBERLEYMy Lords, is the Minister aware that the Morning Advertiser—the trade paper of the Licensed Victuallers' Association—are some- what unhappy that this subject has been discussed in your Lordships' House and are very keen that the money should remain with them?
§ Lord WELLS-PESTELLMy Lords, I am not aware of that, but, as has been pointed out on previous occasions, this is a matter that must be resolved by the people concerned.